NEW DELHI: Phoebe Litchfield’s scintillating 119, backed by fluent half-centuries from Ellyse Perry (77) and Ashleigh Gardner (63), powered Australia to 338 in the second ICC Women’s World Cup semifinal on Thursday. India’s bowling and fielding both lacked sharpness, allowing the visitors to post a formidable total.

If not for a composed third spell from Shree Charani (2/49), Australia might have crossed 350. The left-arm spinner struck twice in quick succession to remove Beth Mooney (24) and Annabel Sutherland (3), triggering a brief collapse that saw Australia slip from 220 for two to 265 for six.

Litchfield’s Masterclass

Litchfield, who entered the knockout clash with just one fifty in the tournament, produced her best when it mattered most. Her third ODI ton came off only 77 balls, featuring 17 boundaries and three sixes. The 22-year-old displayed a full range of strokes — from deft reverse sweeps to towering lofted drives — punishing anything loose with precision.

A dramatic moment arrived when she walked off thinking she was caught at short third man on 62, only to be recalled after replays showed the ball had touched the turf. Unfazed, she continued to dominate, adding 155 runs for the second wicket with Perry, whose steady 77 off 88 balls held the innings together.

India’s Missed Chances

India’s fielding woes began early when captain Harmanpreet Kaur dropped a straightforward chance in the third over to reprieve Alyssa Healy. Although Gaud removed the Australian skipper in the sixth over, the early lapse set the tone for a sloppy performance.

Gaud was inconsistent with her lines, Renuka Singh failed to find her trademark swing, and Deepti Sharma (2/73) had to wait until the end overs for her breakthroughs. Charani’s disciplined spell was the only bright spot as she maintained control on a placid surface that offered little assistance.

Gardner’s explosive 63 off 45 balls, decorated with four sixes and four fours, ensured Australia surged past 300 before being bowled out with one ball remaining.

(With PTI Inputs)